Signal Hill Park (信号山公园, Xinhao Hill Park, Xinhaoshan Park) is a great destination for enjoying flowers and greenery, as well as a perfect spot for hiking and taking in panoramic views of Qingdao. With over a century of history, the park has witnessed the city’s development since its establishment.
In 1897, during the German occupation of Qingdao, the first wireless radio station was built on Signal Hill. After the completion of Qingdao Port, a signal flag station was set up on the hill to communicate with ships and sailboats entering the harbor, which is how the park got its name, also known as “Flag Hill.”
Originally called Dashi Stone Mountain, the hill is named for its numerous granite boulders. Additionally, it is situated among five roads with “Dragon” in their names – Longshan, Fulongshan, Longhua, Longkou, and Longjiang – hence it is also referred to as “Wulong Mountain.” The hill is easily recognizable, featuring three red mushroom-shaped domes at its summit, resembling three torches standing tall amidst the green hills. It overlooks the sea and is backed by the urban area, making it one of the best viewpoints for enjoying the scenery of the Qianhai area and the city skyline.
Travel Information about Signal Hill Park
Ticket Prices and Opening Hours
Ticket Prices:
- Signal Hill Park: 15 RMB (includes access to the rotating observation tower)
- St. Michael’s Cathedral: 10 RMB (Monday to Saturday), free on Sunday
- German Prison Museum: 25 RMB
- Lao She Former Residence: free entry
Opening Hours:
Signal Hill Park:
- Peak Season: 07:30 – 17:30
- Off-Season: 07:30 – 17:00
St. Michael’s Cathedral:
- Monday to Saturday: 08:30 – 16:30
- Sunday: 11:30 – 16:30
German Prison Museum: 09:00 – 17:00
Lao She Former Residence:
- Closed on Monday
- Tuesday to Sunday: 09:00 – 11:30, 13:00 – 16:00
Access Information
Location: 17 Longshan Road, Shinan District, Qingdao
Transportation: Take buses 1, 25, 214, 217, 225, or 228 and get off at Qingyi Hospital Station. Or take metro line 4, get off at Signal Hill Station (信号山站), use the Exit B2, and you will be standing right at the foot.
Attraction Ratings
- Cultural: ★★★★
- Scenic: ★★★★
- Unique: ★★★
- Recreational: ★★★
- Thrilling: ★★★
- Romantic: ★★★
Highlights of Signal Hill Park
Yingbin Pavilion
Yingbin Pavilion, formerly known as the “Governor’s Mansion” of the German colonial administration, is situated on the southern slope of Signal Hill, overlooking both the mountain and the sea. The elevated location imparts an air of solemnity and authority to this historic site.
Built in 1903 during the German Wilhelm era, the Governor’s Mansion is a prominent example of typical German architectural style of that time and is one of Qingdao’s most renowned buildings.
The facade of the building is constructed from high-quality Qingdao granite, while the roof is covered with red cylindrical tiles. This design makes the structure both imposing and aesthetically pleasing, combining grandeur with durability. The surrounding environment is also well-planned, with the building facing south and six roads radiating out from the entrance, enhancing its majestic appearance.
Today, the pavilion serves as the office building for the Standing Committee of the Qingdao Municipal People’s Congress. Access is limited to viewing the exterior of the building.
St. Michael’s Cathedral
Located on Jiangsu Road, St. Michael’s Cathedral is one of Qingdao’s most notable religious buildings. The cathedral features a prominent clock tower, commonly referred to as the “Clock Tower,” exemplifying a typical German castle architectural style.
The clock tower stands at 39.1 meters tall, offering visitors the chance to enjoy stunning views of the sea and sky over the island city from its heights. The large clock on the tower adds an element of mystery and solemnity to the already majestic structure.
The main hall of the cathedral is spacious and bright, capable of accommodating up to a thousand people. The 18-meter-high hall is divided into two levels, with beautifully elegant decorations adorning the sides, creating a serene and impressive atmosphere for worship and reflection.
Signal Hill Park
East of St. Michael’s Cathedral, Signal Hill rises to an elevation of 110 meters, characterized by its steep cliffs and rugged rock formations, all adorned with vibrant flowers and lush greenery. When mist hovers over the landscape, the hill appears strikingly vivid and alive.
The slopes of Signal Hill feature beautifully designed pavilions, platforms, and towers in distinct yellow and white colors, which are artfully placed among the flora. Meandering stone paths wind through the shaded areas, providing a tranquil walking experience. At the summit, three red mushroom-shaped buildings stand tall like torches amidst the verdant backdrop, creating a visually stunning sight.
This park, designed in European style, is named after the hill itself and boasts 14 scenic walking trails. Key attractions include the rotating observation tower, outdoor tea pavilion, hexagonal pavilion, mushroom pavilion, magnolia pavilion, resting corridor, and arch bridge. These features are arranged in a harmonious manner, offering a serene and picturesque landscape filled with the sounds of chirping birds and the scent of blooming flowers.
Related Details:
- The rotating observation tower at the summit of Signal Hill is a fascinating spot. Visitors can sit down and enjoy a leisurely 20-minute rotation to take in the panoramic view of Qingdao from above. From this elevated perspective, one can admire the sea, the park, and countless red-roofed buildings, creating a truly delightful experience.
- Located in the city center, Signal Hill, with its towering heights and lush greenery, is not only an excellent destination for sightseeing but also a popular spot for locals to gather herbs and collect dew. Collecting herbs, particularly mugwort, is a tradition in Jiaodong. Each year, before dawn on the Dragon Boat Festival, residents ascend Signal Hill to gather mugwort and collect dew, seeking to ward off misfortune and pray for safety. During the Double Ninth Festival, the summit attracts many visitors who come to enjoy the breathtaking views and fully embrace the gifts of nature.
Qingdao German Prison Museum
Qingdao German Prison Museum is one of the oldest colonial prison sites still in existence in China. The prison complex consists of five cells named after the virtues of “benevolence,” “righteousness,” “propriety,” “wisdom,” and “faith,” along with a factory.
The museum currently preserves nine historical buildings, featuring two main exhibition areas: the “Restoration of Historical Scenes of Qingdao Prison” and the “Exhibition of Modern Judicial History in Qingdao.” These exhibits showcase a wealth of valuable artifacts, photographs, and audiovisual materials, employing modern technology such as wax figures, sound, light, electricity, and “holographic imaging” to illustrate the prison’s various phases and the historical context of the time.
In addition to the German prison building, the museum includes significant historical sites such as a large plaque of quotations from Chairman Mao from the Cultural Revolution, the prison’s recreation yard, bathing facilities, guard posts, stone mills, pickling jars, a Japanese military bunker, and the cells named after the virtues of “righteousness,” “propriety,” and “wisdom.”
Former Residence of Lao She
The Former Residence of Lao She, located on Huangxian Road, is a two-story building where the renowned Chinese writer lived during his time teaching at Shandong University in the mid-1930s. It is here that he created some of his most notable works, including the long novel Camel Xiangzi and the novella The Scholar.
After renovations, the residence was renamed the Camel Xiangzi Museum, and it now serves as a memorial to Lao She as well as a dedicated space for his famous work. This museum is notable for being the first in China to be named after a literary work.
The museum primarily occupies the first floor and is divided into several sections, including an entrance hall, edition hall, creative hall, Qingdao hall, film hall, and collection hall. The second floor and attic feature a tea room, while the courtyard is adorned with sculptures and ceramic wall murals. On the west wall of the study, there are detailed carvings depicting the seven routes that Xiangzi took while pulling a rickshaw.
The museum showcases various items related to Lao She, including photographs and martial arts weapons he used during his lifetime. His writing desk is preserved in its original position, and several masterpieces, including Camel Xiangzi, were completed on that very desk.
One-Hour Tour Guide to Exploring Signal Hill Park
Free Entry, But Ticketing is Required: Although admission to Signal Hill Park is free, you’ll need to buy a ticket before entering. You can purchase a ticket through Meituan or by scanning a QR code located across from the park entrance. If you don’t plan on visiting the rotating observation tower, you can opt for the 0-yuan ticket. For those wishing to visit the tower, an adult ticket costs ¥10, while students pay ¥5. Simply select the appropriate ticket option when purchasing.
Ticket Scanning and Entrance: Once you’ve bought your ticket, scan the QR code at the entrance. The staff will provide a small receipt, which is essential—be sure to keep it with you! You’ll need it to access the rotating observation tower later.
Start Your Climb: Upon entering the park, you’ll find the path to the summit on your right. Signal Hill isn’t very high, so it takes only about 10 minutes to reach the top. Along the way, you’ll pass two small wooden huts selling old-fashioned popsicles. These iconic Qingdao Beer-flavored popsicles are a must-try, with a strong beer taste that’s refreshing and unique!
At the Summit: At the top of Signal Hill, you’ll find the Treading Waves Viewing Platform and the Rotating Observation Tower. Follow the signs on the map to reach these attractions.
- Treading Waves Viewing Platform: This large platform offers stunning views of the sea and the city’s architecture. It’s the perfect spot for photos!
- Rotating Observation Tower: To enter the tower, you’ll need to climb a few steps. Make sure to have your ticket ready for a quick scan before heading inside.
Rotating Observation Tower: The tower has four levels. Head straight to the top level, which features a large round glass sphere. The floor slowly rotates, offering a unique, 360-degree view of Qingdao. You can stand in one spot and let the floor turn, providing a relaxed way to enjoy the scenery. It’s an amazing way to take in the view from every angle.
Spotting Iconic Landmarks: Around the tower, there’s a ring of small platforms featuring pictures of iconic Qingdao landmarks. Follow the directions on these signs to spot the real-life structures, such as the famous Zhanqiao Pier.
Descending the Hill: After you exit the observation tower, look for the signs indicating the way down. Follow the path, and it will lead you back to the park’s entrance. To clarify: the right side of the entrance leads you up, while the left side is the downhill path.
6 Essential Tips to Enhance Your Signal Hill Park Experience
1. Best Entrance to Use: If you want to avoid a steep climb, make sure to navigate to the North Gate of Signal Hill Park. From there, you’ll be just a short walk to the entrance, and it’s only a 10-minute hike to the top—saving you plenty of energy for the views. Avoid the South Gate, which involves a long and steep staircase that may be challenging for children or elderly visitors.
2. Visit on a Clear Day: Signal Hill offers a 360° panoramic view of Qingdao’s old town, so choosing a day with good weather will significantly enhance your experience. The clear skies and lush green surroundings, along with the sight of the red rooftops and the blue sea, make for an unforgettable view.
3. Parking Can Be Limited: Parking at Signal Hill Park is scarce, and driving may not be the best option, especially during peak times. Instead, consider taking a taxi, public transportation, or the subway. If you’re close by, walking to the park can also be a pleasant alternative.
4. Afternoon Visit for a Peaceful Sunset: The park is especially beautiful in the afternoon, when the temperatures cool down. It’s the perfect time to leisurely stroll and watch a breathtaking sunset over Qingdao, a moment that’s sure to refresh and relax you.
5. Time Required for a Visit: You can expect to spend anywhere from 1 to 3 hours exploring Signal Hill Park, depending on how long you take to enjoy the views, stroll around, and visit the various attractions.
6. Top Photo Spots and Attractions: Don’t miss these popular spots within Signal Hill Park:
- Treading Waves Viewing Platform
- Wulongtan Fountain
- Lianxin Sky Bridge
- Dietrich Memorial
- Cong Mansion
- Former Residence of the German Governor
Xiaoyu Hill vs. Signal Hill: Which Park Should You Visit?
Climbing Time Comparison
- Xiaoyu Hill: Reaching the top takes only 2–3 minutes, thanks to its gentle slope.
- Signal Hill:
- From the main entrance: 10–15 minutes.
- From the north entrance: A shorter 3–5 minutes to the top.
Advantages of Each Hill
Xiaoyu Hill Park
- Easier Climb: Its low slope makes it perfect for those who dislike hiking or are traveling with seniors.
- Panoramic Views: The wide, unobstructed views make for excellent photography, with a high chance of capturing postcard-worthy shots.
- Nearby Attractions: Proximity to popular spots such as Underwater World (海底世界), Lu Xun Park (鲁迅公园), and the Third Bathing Beach (第三海水浴场) ensures there’s more to explore after your visit.
Signal Hill Park
- Higher Elevation: Signal Hill’s greater altitude offers more expansive views of Qingdao, especially the old town area.
- Viewing Platform: The hilltop observatory provides unparalleled vistas of the city, though it requires a ticket (10 RMB).
- Cooler Atmosphere: With more greenery, the climb is refreshing and shaded, making it ideal for hot days.
- Old-World Charm: The buildings and streets at the hill’s base exude a rustic, historic vibe.
Key Information about Signal Hill Park and Xiaoyu Hill Park
| Feature | Signal Hill Park | Xiaoyu Hill Park |
|---|---|---|
| Address | No. 17 Ding, Qidong Road, Shinan District, Qingdao | No. 24 Fushan Branch Road, Badaguan Street, Shinan District, Qingdao |
| Transportation | Navigate to “Signal Hill Park North Gate”, 5-min walk to the viewpoint, 15-min walk to the highest point | Navigate to “Xiaoyu Hill Park North Gate”, 2-min walk to the viewpoint |
| Admission | Free entry (reservation required). The rotating observation tower costs 10 RMB (optional; most views are visible from below). | Free entry (reservation required). |
| Recommended Duration | 1–2 hours | 30 minutes |
| Nearby Attractions | Zhanqiao Pier, St. Michael’s Cathedral, German Governor’s Residence, Prison Site, Comic Street | Lu Xun Park, Badaguan Scenic Area, First Bathing Beach, Second Bathing Beach |
Our Recommendation
For a quick and effortless climb with a vibrant atmosphere, Xiaoyu Hill is the better choice. Its accessibility, scenic surroundings, and ease of photography make it perfect for a relaxed outing, especially between 4–6 PM. However, if you’re up for a slightly more challenging climb and wish to enjoy Qingdao’s old town from a higher vantage point, Signal Hill is worth the visit.